A set of eight Regency ormolu mounted ebony-inlaid mahogany dining chairs circa 1810

comprising two armchairs and six side chairs.

Chairs are sturdy and in good condition. All chairs with some nicks, scratches, and dents to mahogany especially at feet. Mounts with some oxidation and surface dirt. A few occasional patches and chips to mahogany. One chair with a restored break to middle of back rail. One chair with a restored break to top of back leg. Two chairs with restored cracks to the top of legs at the join with seat rail.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

These chairs of klismos form are very similar to designs by Thomas Hope found in his publication Household Furniture and Interior Decoration, published in 1807.  The overall form as well as the ebony inlay to the cresting rail, arms and legs is similar to that of a chair found on plate 24, no. 3 (fig. 1) described as ‘Mahogany chairs, inlaid in metal and ebony’.  The stylized mask of Medusa to the center of the cresting rail is very similar to one of Hope’s designs found on plate 38, no. 1. (fig. 2).  The inclusion of the Medusa head makes direct reference to the goddess Minerva, on whose shield is placed the Medusa mask.  It also refers to Perseus who killed Medusa using Minerva’s shield.  Minerva like Apollo was a benevolent god and is the patroness of education and the arts as well as being the goddess of wisdom and just war.  Bacchic attributed are usually found on furniture relating to dining rooms; however, the inclusion of the Mercury mask may have been specific to person who originally commissioned these beautifully made chairs and may refer to his self  rather than to a specific room.